The Financial Express
The landscape of international education has undergone significant transformation over the last few years. Students who are interested in studying abroad need to keep themselves informed about the latest regulations on work permits, student visas, and other related matters.
Vaibhav Gupta, CO-founder and CMO of iSchoolConnect discusses the necessity for students to adjust to new regulations in different nations in an interview with Financial Express Online.
How do you foresee Canada’s implementation of a two-year cap on global entries impacting international students and their educational aspirations? What advice or guidance would you offer to students affected by this policy change?
The recent decision by Canada to limit international student entries for two years has created a stir in the educational community worldwide, especially affecting Indian students aiming for higher education in Canada. Known for its open policies and numerous opportunities, Canada’s introduction of a cap on international student visas has sparked worry among potential students.
The Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) expects a 35% decrease in study permits for 2024, casting doubt on the future of international education in Canada. Students need to stay hopeful despite the policy change. Despite a rise in visa rejections for Indian students, Canada’s enduring attractiveness as a study destination should prevail as favorable conditions might return eventually.
One should focus on leading colleges and main campuses to improve admission prospects, emphasizing the choice on institutions known for their educational commitment and reliability. One may also consider alternative destinations like Germany, France, Ireland, Dubai, Malta, Spain, Singapore, and New Zealand, which offer unique benefits and opportunities.
As students navigate Canada’s policy adjustments, it’s crucial to stay informed and weigh factors such as post-graduation work prospects, living costs, and healthcare systems.
With the record drop in international student visa approval rates, how do you think this will affect the global education landscape? What measures can international students take to navigate these challenges effectively?
As the new academic year approaches, Australian universities anticipate a rise in international student applications for the 2024 session. Yet, there’s growing concern as international student visa approval rates have dramatically decreased, hinting at potential shifts in the global education sector.
Recent figures reveal a significant drop in Australia’s student visa approval rate from over 90% in the past 15 years to 82% last year, with vocational education approvals falling to 70% in the six months up to December 2023. Australia might witness a reduction of about 90,000 student visa holders in 2023-24 compared to the prior year, as ICEF Monitor reports.
This downturn in approvals aligns with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s efforts to manage post-COVID migration spikes, aiming to limit entry by ‘non-genuine’ students. With over 510,000 migrants, including 270,000 students, arriving in 2022-23, the government is addressing housing and living cost pressures.
To effectively tackle these hurdles, international students should ensure their visa applications are transparent and comply with all regulations, showing genuine study intentions. Researching visa and university requirements thoroughly can aid in making informed choices.
Moreover, exploring alternative study destinations offering favorable conditions and strong support networks is advisable. Countries like Germany, France, Ireland, Dubai, Malta, Spain, Singapore, and New Zealand are attractive options with diverse educational programs and easier visa procedures.
The significant decline in visa approval rates presents challenges to the international education scene, but by following regulatory guidelines, making informed decisions, and considering other countries, students can navigate these difficult times. As the education sector and governments strive to maintain the sector’s integrity, it’s vital for international students to stay adaptable and focused on their educational goals.
What initiatives or strategies do you believe France will implement to achieve its goal of attracting half a million international students by 2027?
France is on a mission to attract half a million international students by 2027, following a plan initiated in 2019. Campus France’s latest data shows a 2.6 percent increase in international student enrollments from the previous year, a 17 percent rise in five years, aiming to position France as a leading destination for global students, as reported by Erudera.com. Campus France’s strategy includes enhancing France’s image as a top European study destination and enriching its academic and research environment.
To reach this ambitious target, France plans to simplify the application process for international students through digitalization and initiate a worldwide communication campaign by Campus France. Morocco, Algeria, China, Italy, and Senegal are the top countries sending students to France, significantly benefiting the French economy with a €5 billion annual contribution.
France is improving its appeal by offering health insurance and social benefits to international students and keeping tuition fees for non-EU students consistent under new immigration laws. Furthermore, programs like Erasmus+ for student and staff mobility highlight France’s commitment to international educational cooperation.
As France works towards its goal, focusing on accessibility, affordability, and academic excellence will be key to attracting and retaining international talent. Through careful planning and dedicated efforts, France aims to strengthen its position as a global education and innovation hub, welcoming diverse students and encouraging cultural exchanges.
Can you provide more details about the Rs 82-lakh scholarship for Indian students abroad and its significance in facilitating access to education opportunities? How can students make the most of this opportunity?
Founded in 1976 by Indoo Shivdasani, the Inlaks Foundation has recently undergone a significant transformation, now known as the Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation. This change marks a strategic move to formalize and expand Shivdasani’s philanthropic endeavors through a dedicated and independent organization.
Over the past four decades, the foundation has made substantial contributions to the education sector, supporting nearly 480 scholars with overseas scholarships and benefiting around 800 others with various awards and grants both in India and internationally. The foundation’s maximum funding capacity reaches up to USD 100,000, providing substantial financial support to deserving candidates.
One of the foundation’s flagship initiatives is the Inlaks Shivdasani Scholarship, which offers eligible Indian students a generous funding of $1 lakh (approximately Rs 82.97 lakh). This scholarship covers a wide range of expenses, including educational costs, living expenses, medical needs, and even a one-way flight ticket, making it a comprehensive support system for students pursuing higher education abroad.
For aspiring scholars, the scholarship application period opened on February 6, with a deadline of March 22, 2024, for submissions. Eligible candidates must meet certain criteria, including being born on or after January 1, 1994, and holding a degree from a recognized Indian university. Additionally, candidates must have secured admission to their chosen program before applying, and passing an English language proficiency test such as TOEFL or IELTS is mandatory.
The selection process for the scholarship is rigorous and impartial, with the INLAKS Selection Committee evaluating candidates based on their academic achievements, future potential, and impact. For applicants in the Arts and Design fields, the quality of their portfolio plays a significant role in the selection process.
To maximize this invaluable opportunity, students are advised to meticulously prepare their application materials, ensuring they meet all eligibility criteria and submit required documents accurately. With the foundation’s collaboration with prestigious institutions like Imperial College London, University of Cambridge, and Sciences Po Paris, recipients of the Inlaks Shivdasani Scholarship gain access to world-class education and unparalleled learning experiences.
The Inlaks Shivdasani Scholarship stands as a beacon of opportunity for Indian students seeking to pursue higher education abroad. By providing substantial financial support and fostering academic excellence, this scholarship plays a crucial role in facilitating access to education opportunities and empowering the next generation of global leaders.
Could you share more information about the Australia Awards Scholarships and their significance for aspiring students?
The Australian Government has unveiled the commencement of applications for the esteemed 2025 Australia Awards Scholarships, extending an invaluable opportunity to aspiring students hailing from select developing nations. This prestigious initiative facilitates full-time undergraduate or postgraduate studies at distinguished Australian universities, fostering academic excellence and international collaboration.
The application window for the 2025 intake opened on Thursday, 1st February 2024, with aspiring scholars urged to submit their applications before the closing date on Tuesday, 30th April 2024, at 11:59 pm AEST.
Applicants from eligible nations are encouraged to seize this unique opportunity for academic enrichment and personal growth.
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